Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. This vibrant city boasts stunning scenery with the Blue Ridge Parkway, often dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” providing unparalleled views of the Appalachian wilderness. In autumn, the mountains burst with fiery reds and golds, creating one of the most picturesque fall displays in the U.S. Beyond its natural beauty,
Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is the country’s premier destination for both relaxation and adventure. Just off its shores lies the Belize Barrier Reef, offering some of the world’s most spectacular snorkeling and diving.
Brighton, a vibrant seaside city on England's southern coast, has long been a favorite getaway for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and the sea. Its most famous landmark, the Royal Pavilion, is an architectural wonder with its exotic, Indian-inspired domes and minarets. Originally built for King George IV as a lavish seaside retreat, the palace today offers visitors a glimpse into royal opulence with its richly decorated interiors and sprawling gardens.
Perched high above Burgundy’s vineyards and fields, Vézelay is defined by its winding stone streets and the great Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, a centuries-old destination for Christian pilgrims. Its Romanesque architecture, far-reaching countryside views, and enduring connection to the pilgrimage routes toward Santiago de Compostela give this small hilltop village an unusually rich sense of place.
Bryce Canyon, tucked into the high plateaus of southern Utah, offers one of the most unusual landscapes in the American Southwest. It’s not actually a canyon but a series of natural amphitheaters carved into the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. What makes Bryce unique is its dense collection of hoodoos which are tall, thin spires of rock formed over millions of years by frost-wedging and erosion.
Photo Credit: Photo by Vismantė Žigutytė on Unsplash
Antiquity is everywhere on the island of Rhodes, from its cobbled Old Town to a mighty acropolis presiding high over the town of Lindos. Ancient ruins recall Crusades-era occupation and Ottoman tyranny, but today, a rather magical Aegean lifestyle is predominant. Travelers will enjoy excellent food, picturesque beaches, buzzing nightlife, and snorkeling in clear waters. Some must-sees here include the Palace of the Grandmaster of the Knights of Rhodes (a medieval castle), the Colossus of Rhodes statue, and the nature reserve Valley of the Butterflies.
Other Popular Destinations in Greece
Athens
Ancient history comes alive in Athens, the capital of Greece. Gaze in wonder at the Acropolis and its iconic crown, the Parthenon. Take a deeper dive into the past and visit both the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which house fascinating artifacts from this ancient city.
Santorini
Reshaped by volcanic activity, the rugged yet enchanting Santorini beckons all seafaring souls in the Aegean Sea. Visitors to this breathtaking and romantic Cyclades archipelago will gaze at the whitewashed cubiform houses sitting cliffside and hovering over the water.